A Cool, Powerful Female Lead in an Ancient-Style Setting, Ruthless and Decisive, Controlling Everything 女主冷淡强大，古风，手段狠辣果决，掌控全局

1. 151 沙 After the Goofy Guard Joined the Mansion, the Easygoing Prince's Heart Started Racing 沙雕侍卫进府后，佛系皇子心狂跳 Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance555k WordsCompleted The ratings are low right after release [madcap antics + chaotic everyday life + satisfying schemes + two powerful leads + ensemble cast + sharp-tongued] A worker's got a worker's spirit. Workers are the cream of the crop! Zhao Ouou, China's top sanda champion, accidentally transmigrates into the body of a young assassin who successfully defected from her organization in a political-strategy novel with a strong female lead. In the original story, the protagonist defected from her organization an 134Reads7.1Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   These are all ancient romance novels with a satisfying and refreshing feel. The female protagonists are not overly saintly, especially the first and second books. I guarantee you won't regret reading them.

2. 152 重 Reborn: The Regent’s Ruthless Princess Consort 重生之摄政王妃好凶残 Spring Garment Terrace春衣台Ancient Romance162k WordsCompleted Shen Nian, the legitimate eldest daughter of the General's household, is peerlessly beautiful and has mastered swordsmanship. Yet because of one man, everyone brands her a lovesick fool, and the world mocks and gossips about her. She believes she has found true love and, rather than follow through with her betrothal to the regent, The Outcast and second to none, she gives it up just to follow the man she loves. As a result, her grandfather dies of rage at home, her elder brother is killed by ban 155Reads8.3Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   These four books are

3. 153 掀 Flip the Table! The Legitimate Daughter Returns to Make Her Mark! 掀桌子！归来嫡女要立威！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Political Intrigue + Feel-Good Story + Sharp Tongues + Ensemble Cast + Nation and Family + Two Strong Leads + Devoted Couple] The legitimate daughter of a general's household, who had been left to fend for herself in the countryside, was maliciously attacked. When she opened her eyes again, she had become Liu Qingyue, China's top special agent. Determined to repay her master's kindness in recognizing her abilities, Liu Qingyue accepted his dying wish, left the Taoist temple, and returned home t 8.5kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves
4. 154 绝 The Beautiful Imperial Consort Frowns, and the King Pulls Her Close to Soothe Her 绝色皇妃一皱眉，君王锁腰轻哄 Feng Qianying风千影Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Reborn + sweet romance + one-on-one] A stunning, flirtatious princess who knows how to ensnare a man x a domineering, scheming, jealous emperor In her previous life, Yun Shuwu, the most revered of the five princesses of Beimo, married the wrong man: Xiao Jimian, the emperor of Nanjiang. She thought he was the right one for her, but he turned out to be an obsessive scoundrel who knew nothing of love and only knew how to use her. She endured endless humiliation and torment in Nanjiang, and died f 1.4kReads9.2Score222Shelves
5. 155 惊 What a Shock! The Farmhouse Doctor Is No Ordinary Woman! 惊！农门医妃大有来头！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Two equally formidable leads + mutual chastity + traditional Chinese medicine + martial prowess + scheming + laugh-out-loud humor + satisfying revenge She’s a gifted doctor on the verge of entering the world of traditional Chinese medicine in modern China, but her soul transmigrates into a poor village in ancient times. On her very first day, she nearly gets buried alive! Her fiery temper flares. She rolls up her sleeves and beats the traffickers to a pulp, winning her freedom! Then she thrashes 3.3kReads9.3Score548Shelves
6. 156 最 The Strongest Female Military Doctor 最强女军医 Zhou Xiaobai周小白Ancient Romance686k WordsCompleted A super doctor suddenly appears in the vanguard camp of the Great General of Wu'an. “Brother Lu, take a look at me first.” Yuan Yi, who stands over six feet tall, wails. “Me too, Brother Lu!” All the brothers of the Seventeenth Squad gaze at Lu Youqing with pitiful expressions. Suddenly, more and more wounded soldiers crowd into the medical tent and pull down their pants right in front of Lu Youqing. “Why are you taking your pants off?” “Divine Doctor Lu, we were ambushed, and our butts got burn 87Reads8.3Score—Shelves
7. 157 她 She’s Soft-Waisted and Playful, and the Chaste Imperial Uncle Bewitches Her Every Day 她腰软灵趣，禁欲皇叔日日勾心魂 Cloud Brocade Magpie云锦鹊Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted Word has it that Prince Rong has specifically asked to marry the Taifu’s infatuated legitimate daughter. The whole city says it’s downright shocking! Just a few months ago, hadn’t Prince Rong threatened to kill that lovesick fool? At the Taifu’s residence, a certain lovestruck young woman looks at a room full of betrothal gifts and pulls a long face. “Someone, please! Can you send all this back?” The noble young ladies of the capital burst out swearing. “Have some shame, will you?” 19.4kReads9.4Score3.1kShelves
8. 158 兽 The Beastly, Wild Concubine: The Imperial Uncle Defies Heaven for Her 兽黑狂妃：皇叔逆天宠 Qing Shan青扇Ancient Romance3.4M WordsOngoing Mu Wushuang was a top medical and special agent in the twenty-first century. With one hand she could bring the dead back to life, and with the other she could kill criminals. If she decided someone would die by three in the morning, they wouldn't live to see five. She was known as the "Female Yama." After transmigrating into the body of the third daughter of the Dingguo Marquis's household, she became a famously useless, ugly girl. Little did anyone know that once she opened her cold eyes, all b 1kReads9.0Score260Shelves
9. 159 羞 Humiliation? The Face-Slapping Began with the Imperial Betrothal! 羞辱？从赐婚开始便是打脸！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (Feel-good, two powerful leads, devoted couple, space, medicine, martial arts prowess, face-slapping) A top mercenary in the twenty-first century suddenly transmigrates to an alternate ancient world while on a mission, becoming an unloved illegitimate daughter of a general's household. A marriage contract and a deal transform the heroine into the wife of the “crippled prince”... With the two “princes” joining forces, the world is theirs! The Crown Prince stands in their way? Bring him down! Prin 4.8kReads9.3Score748Shelves
10. 160 农 Eldest Farmhouse Daughter: After I Transmigrate, I Become the Prince’s Cherished One 农家长姐：穿越后成了王爷心头宠 Trading Black Hair for White青丝换白发Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The moment Cheng Ying opens her eyes, she finds herself in a human trafficker's den. She's stunned. With her tiny arms and legs, has she transmigrated? Her father is a top general in the imperial court, framed for treason and sentenced to have his entire family executed? How can she stand for that? But whose adorable, sweet, and obedient little child is this? After learning about her background, Cheng Ying decides to do two things. First: Raise the little one well, and help them become a person 2.5kReads9.2Score368Shelves
11. 161 庶 The Concubine's Plan for the Legitimate Daughter 庶女嫡谋 Bei Mu Nan Qiao北木南乔Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted The Grand Empress Dowager, who had ruled the court for more than a decade, passed away. Reborn as the unloved, impoverished daughter of a marquis’s concubine, she had no desire to strive in this life. All she wanted was to marry a husband with a short life expectancy and enjoy widowhood after he died. Yang Yue died in battle. After death, his soul lingered on, witnessing the shifts of power in the Great Qing dynasty and watching the Grand Empress Dowager be poisoned by her own grandson. When he 9.9kReads8.8Score1.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Cold and vengeful, the pacing is excellent, and there are no fools in the entire story; it feels like everyone is a villain.

12. 162 十 Ignored for Eighteen Years, the Legitimate Daughter Returns to Deliver a Face-Slapping 十八年不闻不问，嫡女打脸回归！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Satisfying read + political intrigue + the fate of the nation + a pocket dimension + the martial world + medicine and poison + suspense] After accidentally transmigrating from a world polluted by nuclear fallout to an alternate realm, the heroine becomes an unwanted daughter of an official’s family. One day after transmigrating, she beats up a wicked servant and sells him off. From then on, the estate is her turf! Seven days after transmigrating, she becomes the leader of the martial world’s mo 4.2kReads9.1Score567Shelves
13. 163 重 After Being Reborn, She Used Her Golden Finger to Become Regent 重生后她靠金手指当上了摄政王 Liuhe1六合1Ancient Romance266k WordsOngoing Madcap Female Regent VS Ascetic Chancellor Strong heroine, battlefield, political intrigue, court politics The autumn breeze blew softly, carrying a hint of chill and making the beaded curtain sway. A pair of cold eyes stared into the night sky, pale lips murmuring, “My family is all here. How wonderful. There’s still time to set everything right.” Reborn into this life, if I choose to overthrow the world, who can stop me? If Heaven resents me, so what if I bury it? Emperor Jin’an, let’s see how 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a new book, so you can read it after it's been read a few times. In the early stages, the female general is decisive and ruthless. In the middle stages, she protects her family and rises to the top. In the later stages, she goes on a killing spree on the battlefield! In the end, she ascends the throne and becomes the first female regent, wielding the power of life and death above the imperial authority.

14. 164 最 The Poorest Assassin Picks a Fight, and Even the Emperor Is Terrified! 最穷杀手要找茬，皇贵闻风丧胆！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance619k WordsCompleted Two strong leads + devoted couple + pocket dimension + powerful fighting skills + satisfying revenge + scheming hero + comedy + medical skills China’s poorest female assassin breaks free from her bonds and fights with her life, dragging the villains down to hell with her… When she opens her eyes again, she has been reborn as a disowned daughter kicked out by a corrupt fifth-rank official. Given a second chance at life, Leng Liuyue throws her head back and laughs. With the air of a true powerhous 3.6kReads9.2Score461Shelves
15. 165 公 After the Princess Refused a Political Marriage, She Conquered the Empire 公主拒绝和亲后，称霸了江山 Evening Ripples晚漾Ancient Romance395k WordsCompleted [No rebirth or transmigration + powerful female lead + nation and family + court politics and ambition + light, stress-relieving power fantasy] Princess Chaohuang, daughter of the late crown prince, is deeply beloved by the emperor and the most exalted princess in the Kingdom of Xining. But the great clans consider her a thorn in their side and are constantly trying to drive her out. The daily question: Has Princess Chaohuang been kicked out of the Eastern Palace yet? Envoys from enemy states: W 323Reads8.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    These two palace intrigue novels are a must-read, they're super good!

16. 166 疯 Mad Empress: I’ll Be the Harem’s Number One White Lotus 疯批皇后，争做后宫第一白莲花 Luo Zhi洛枝Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Transmigration into a fictional setting + highly intelligent heroine in palace intrigue + face-slapping + a volatile, multifaceted personality + not a clean romance] Lin Junxue transmigrated to the Xie Dynasty, an era that had never existed in history, and ended up as an unloved empress who had no idea how she died. She’d thought she was a powerless, unloved empress, but it turned out the original owner’s father was a first-rank military marquis, a loyal servant of the court for three generatio 23.3kReads9.1Score2.6kShelves

    Reader note

    This is a type of novel I've never read before. The female protagonist is a seemingly innocent but actually cunning and calculating empress. She's a devoted empress who submits to a suspicious emperor, and she's caught in a complex web of relationships with a Buddhist monk. She meticulously plans every step of the way to appease the original owner of the body, cherishes genuine friendships, and is a ruthless assassin who knows how to use people effectively. Each character is vividly and concretely portrayed. There's no absolute ruthlessness or supernatural abilities; every step is fraught with intrigue and calculated maneuvering. It's a very engaging and psychologically stimulating novel. I especially love the female protagonist's clear-headedness and intelligence; she has everything under control. I hope this novel continues to be incredibly enjoyable!

17. 167 全 Everyone in the Sect Is Love-Brained, Except Me, a True Lunatic 全宗门都是恋爱脑，唯我是真疯批 Paper Tiger纸老虎Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted The complete print edition of A Double Crossing is now available on all platforms. Relationship blogger Lin Du died of a broken heart after being driven crazy by hopeless romantics. After death, she transmigrated into a tragic romance cultivation novel, becoming the beautiful, powerful, yet doomed junior uncle who paved the way for the protagonists' great love with her own ashes. After reading the script, she slowly typed a question mark. “Have they dug up every wild vegetable on this sect's mou 235.3kReads9.7Score27.5kShelves

    Reader note

    It's a good read; the writing is humorous yet profound. It's really good. The ensemble cast is also excellent. The female lead is very strong and resilient.

18. 168 惊 Shocking! The Legitimate Princess Defies Fate Every Day! 惊！嫡公主她每天都在逆天改命！ Ran Qiqi冉七柒Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Female-led power fantasy + ruthless, unhinged heroine + an extreme “I’d rather betray others than let them betray me” mentality] Xuan Mingyao was reborn at the age of seven, back before anything had happened. Though she was the empress’s legitimate daughter, a princess treated like royalty, her younger brother, the crown prince, was about to die of illness. Her mother would soon be consumed by worry, grow estranged from the emperor, and eventually be deposed in the witchcraft scandal. Overnight 28kReads9.4Score3.8kShelves

    Reader note

    A true female protagonist novel. The female lead is independent, decisive, ruthless, and has a very clear goal: to become an empress, take control of her own life, and be herself. Even as a princess, she always plans for herself. Her first step in not ascending to the throne is severing ties with her family. The female lead knows very well that her mother will not support her becoming empress; she can only rely on herself.

19. 169 重 Reborn: I Flirted the Gloomy Regent into a Daze 重生后，阴鸷摄政王被我撩晕了 Heart Yearning for Gardenias心向往栀Ancient Romance556k WordsCompleted "Print edition available for preorder October 24 at 7 p.m.!" "Black Lotus Beauty of a Princess & the Grim, Ruthless Regent" [Two Powerful Leads + Sweet Romance + Devoted Couple + Putting Scumbags in Their Place] Zhixian was the sharpest blade at the side of the Third Prince of Nanzhao, eliminating every obstacle in his bid for the throne. But on the day he was named crown prince, she met her end. "Zhixian, if you want to blame someone, blame yourself for knowing too much." Xuan Yuan Heng wiped t 33.7kReads9.3Score3.4kShelves

    Reader note

    These two books are really good. The female lead is aloof and has a hidden identity; she's skilled in medicine and martial arts and very capable. The male lead dotes on her. They're both excellent reads!

20. 170 替 Reborn After Six Years as a Substitute Favorite: I Make the Tyrant's Heart Ache 替宠六年重生，虐得暴君心肝疼 I'm Drifting Deep in the Sea我在深飘飘Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted “You’re so cold and heartless. Do you think one day you might love someone who doesn’t love you back?” “No.” His voice was flat. He didn’t even look at her as he turned and walked away. She froze, her heart shattering. Six years of being cherished, and in the end, it had all been a lie. But so what? At the very depths of despair, she had been born from obsession. One day, she returned to the age of five. Looking at the pitiful child everyone could bully at will, she wanted to throw back her head 1.6kReads8.5Score120Shelves

    Reader note

    All three of these books feature super cool female protagonists.

21. 171 这 This Chancellor Is a Little Wild 这个丞相有点野 Heng Jiujiu恒久九Ancient Romance352k WordsCompleted Bai Ning is the young master of a renowned healer's estate. Disguised as a man and hiding her identity, she traveled alone to the kingdom of Nan Chu with a letter in hand. Entrusted with a great responsibility by the late emperor, she became the youngest chancellor in Nan Chu's history at the age of thirteen. From then on, she carefully laid her plans, executed corrupt officials, purged the court, and helped the new emperor take the throne. Though they were wary of each other at first, they even 602Reads8.7Score109Shelves
22. 172 大 Her Lord Dotes on His Wife: The Marquis's Daughter Is a Force to Be Reckoned With 大人很宠妻之侯门嫡女她很飒 Siyu Isn't Good思瑜不乖Ancient Romance459k WordsCompleted Everyone in the capital knew that Jiang Qingli, the third legitimate daughter of the Jiang Marquis household and a county princess, had grown up in the countryside. She was plain, poorly educated, arrogant, capricious, vain, and promiscuous. Jiang Qingli could only protest: Were they absolutely, definitely, and positively talking about her? The capital's ways were too complicated. She'd be better off back in the mountain village! Once the old master of the Jiang Marquis household passed away, 343Reads8.1Score—Shelves
23. 173 交 I Traded My Father and Brothers, So Why Are You Crying When I'm the Prince's Favorite? 交换父兄，我成王府团宠你哭什么 A Toast And A Tale把酒叙Ancient Romance781k WordsCompleted In her previous life, Wen Xingluo had poured her heart and soul into securing a bright future for her father and brothers. At last, just as her family reached the height of its power, her sister suddenly returned home and stole their affection, along with her marriage to the crown prince. Only when she was dying did Wen Xingluo learn that her father and brothers had always hated her for being calculating and manipulative. They loved only her sweet, gentle sister. When she opens her eyes again, W 74.7kReads8.4Score11.4kShelves

    Reader note

    Don't let the low rating fool you; the writing truly touched my heart. The female lead is incredibly clear-headed, able to rationally handle even the unequal treatment the male lead gives her. The male lead, in turn, calmly analyzes his own unequal treatment after the female lead rejects him! The female lead is decisive in severing ties with family and kills without hesitation when threatened. However, the male lead is genuinely cold in the beginning, but his love for her deepens later. (Spoiler alert: the male lead knew the female lead in a past life! ❤️) "A liar will be tormented by lies for a lifetime."

24. 174 重 Reborn and Doted on by All: The Empire’s Heiress Shocks the World 重生团宠：帝国大小姐惊爆全球 Qi Yi Zi七一子Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Two powerful leads, nonstop feel-good thrills, no angst] Quan Ji is the empire’s sole officially ennobled young lady. Everyone in humanity must address her respectfully as “Young Lady!” In her previous life, she became a sacrificial pawn of the empire, and made the entire empire pay for it! Reborn, she lets her brilliance shine, and the whole world regrets what it did to her! The empire coddles her and expects her to marry for an alliance? She’s already masterminded control of the powerful nati 941Reads9.4Score160Shelves

    Reader note

    The first book is about a princess who is reborn. In her previous life, she was murdered by the emperor and loved the wrong person. The previous emperor gave her military power, and she had a misunderstanding with the male lead, but it wasn't a big deal. After her rebirth, she doesn't abuse the male lead. The love-struck female lead becomes the empress, but in the end, she resigns and travels with the male lead. The second book is really well written. My Princess Consort is the only one with a holy title. She is very domineering and has a powerful background that makes all countries dare not object. She is like the creator of the world. The third book starts with a princess who has her own power and ruthless methods. She supports the emperor, but later the emperor suspects her and tries to kill the female lead. She dies on the spot, saying something like, "I can help you rise, and I can also bring you down." Then she becomes the empress and has many identities, such as the empress of the ghost realm and a princess of a family. She is in the mortal world (referred to as the secular world in the text) just to find the male lead.

25. 175 巅 The Pinnacle of Imperial Power 巅峰皇权 Yin Yang Jing Hong阴阳惊鸿Ancient Romance693k WordsOngoing [Historical GB + both devoted to each other + Villain heroine + heroine disguises herself as a man early on + court and martial world + vying for the throne] Early: A double-personality, unhinged eunuch × a reborn, sweet-on-the-outside, dark-on-the-inside wicked man Later: An all-powerful ruler of the world × a spoiled, lovesick male consort Sima Ying, the crown prince of the previous dynasty. Her mother was killed at her birth, and her father treated her like a puppet. By ten, she had mastered 633Reads8.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a historical romance novel featuring a strong, virgin female protagonist who ascends to the throne as Empress. The story revolves around five major empires in the Central Plains, thirty-six tribes beyond, and numerous powerful martial arts factions. The female protagonist is cunning, deep, obsessive, hypocritical, and cold-hearted. Ambitious, unconventional, and a typical egoist, she possesses a strong desire for possession and control. She has multiple identities and is one of the top martial arts masters, ruling over a sect and a palace, her power and prestige shaking the martial arts world. She has a dual personality: one cold and rational, calculating, low-key, reserved, noble, elegant, and aloof; the other capricious, arrogant, willful, and possessing a cold, alluring, and wicked charm. The male protagonist is a cunning and manipulative character, ruthless, flexible, and always dressed in red, alluring and stunning. He controls countless poisons and is willing to transform himself into a poison master, a true femme fatale. He is affectionate, clingy, and obedient towards the female protagonist, often pleading for affection with tears in his eyes—a clear-headed romantic. Towards outsiders, he is ruthless, cold-blooded, vicious, and insane, extremely jealous, and narcissistic.

26. 176 公 The Duke’s Estate’s True Daughter Pampers the Chief Assistant Until He Acts Without Restraint 公府真千金，宠得首辅肆无忌惮 Great Wind Tower大风楼Ancient Romance1.2M WordsOngoing [Fake and Real Heiress] [Feel-Good Power Fantasy] [Supernatural Abilities] [Pocket Dimension] [Female Dotes on Male] [Strongest Female Lead, Never Takes a Loss] [Powerhouse Beauty & Frail, Sickly Darling Husband] Xie Shanshan, a greedy and lustful queen of the apocalypse, transmigrates into the true heiress of the Duke of Ning’s household, switched at birth by her biological mother. She had planned to roam the world carefree, but ended up having to go to the capital to claim her identity for the 98.8kReads8.8Score10.1kShelves

    Reader note

    It's so good! It updates daily with so many new entries, and the writing is incredibly smooth.

27. 177 将 The General's Wife Only Wants to Farm 将军夫人一心想种田 Rolling Bitter Melon滚动的苦瓜Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted A farming story turned into an educational account of Zhao Kuangyin, founding emperor of the Early Song. This melon is so drunk. Apart from the protagonist's family and relatives, who are fictional, most of the people in the story are real. Even the personalities of minor soldiers, as well as the characters, events, and policies, are all documented in official histories. For sources, see the Song History on Hancheng.net. Historical fact-checkers welcome. A few caveats before you dive in: First, 25.9kReads9.3Score4.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The female supporting character is cold and powerful.

28. 178 国 The Imperial Preceptor Above: The Unhinged Empress Turns on the Charm 国师在上：疯批女帝撩上瘾 I'm the Crispy Candy酥糖本酥Ancient Romance401k WordsCompleted [Female-led fantasy + two powerful leads + face-slapping + punishing scum + building her own power base + no putting up with abuse] In her previous life, a monk who had never shed blood or slaughtered anyone killed the entire world for her, a wicked and notorious demoness. In this life, she only wants to find him, pursue him, flirt with him, and marry him. And while she's at it, she'll punish some scum and settle a score or two... The aloof, women-averse Imperial Preceptor never turns down her a 932Reads9.1Score216Shelves
29. 179 女 Matriarchy: Resigning from the Golden Palace 女尊：辞金阙 Xie Yang谢央Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted He asked, “Does the Imperial Princess only make use of me? Is there not a trace of genuine feeling in her heart?” He said, “Your Highness, rest easy. Even if it costs me my life, I will bring Youzhou City back for you!” He said, “My wife, don’t frown. It’s only money. The He family will pay for it and help you unify the Nine Provinces.” He said, “Jiang Li, I already lost you once. This time, even if I die, I won’t let go of your hand.” They all asked her the same question: “Does Your Highness ha 8.9kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    You absolutely must have this, or you'll regret it.

30. 180 谈 Explosives Under the Negotiation Table: The Young Lady Storms the Imperial Court 谈判桌下埋火药，大小姐入朝杀疯 Yu Fu余弗Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [The heroine’s creed: Power and money are what let a woman live freely and boldly!] [Strong heroine + satisfying story + vying for the finest men in the realm] Jiang Yu thought she’d be content with a modestly comfortable life. But when she turned eighteen, one ridiculous twist after another came her way. First, the husband she had supported with her own money for years passed the imperial exams at the top of his class, then demanded a divorce so he could marry a noblewoman. Then the Duke’s mans 37.9kReads9.2Score5.5kShelves

    Reader note

    The first book is incredibly powerful with no romantic pairings. The female lead is the most amazing, crazy, and beautiful woman with a brilliant mind; the plot is intricately woven. The second book has a romantic pairing, and the female lead is the strongest.

31. 181 暴 The Tyrant’s Little Darling Gets Away with Everything 暴君家的小奶团她恃宠而骄 Qin Qiu Chenyin琴秋尘音Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted My other novel, The Sickly Buddhist Prince Heir Broke His Vows After I Married Him in Someone Else’s Place, is now available. [Everyone’s favorite + lucky charm + sweet romance + golden finger + adorable baby] The auspicious little qilin Yaoyao transmigrates into the body of a tiny girl. Her father is a fierce, ruthless tyrant, and her mother is a cruel and merciless consort. Her older brothers are all sinister schemers… Looking at her family, little Yaoyao bursts into tears! 1.7kReads9.3Score730Shelves

    Reader note

    These three are all ancient-style novels featuring powerful female protagonists. Their martial arts skills are off the charts, and their intelligence is equally impressive. I especially love the third one and highly recommend it; the female lead is truly strong and eccentric, completely dominating the male lead.

32. 182 闺 Murder in the Inner Quarters 闺中煞 Jian Ye简也Ancient Romance843k WordsCompleted The Jiang family's third branch had a daughter, radiant and resplendent. With a single essay on the strategies of statecraft, she stunned the entire land of Qibei. In her early years, she was forced to marry a widower, and her mother wept herself to an early grave. Later, she fell into the hands of a eunuch. Her father went to the capital again and again for her, only to meet a horrific end, torn apart by five horses. What does it mean for a family to be ruined? What does it mean for everyone t 397Reads8.7Score103Shelves
33. 183 死 Breaking the Deadlock: The Shen Family Heiress's Revenge 死局破：苏家嫡女的复仇棋局 Lightly Scented轻闻Ancient Romance282k WordsCompleted A sudden upheaval rocks the business world of Golden City! Su Muxia, the Su family's legitimate daughter, is called upon in a time of crisis. Her father has been framed and imprisoned, the family is beset by troubles within and enemies without, and powerful foes are closing in! Her cousin betrays the country and seizes power. The scheming Xiao Yunluo works against her from the shadows, while her sworn enemy Xiao Yunteng arrives bearing a blood feud, steadily devouring the Su family's business em 1Reads6.5Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Forget about those thrilling business war novels, this one is a masterpiece! The protagonist is entrusted with a critical mission to shoulder a family crisis, and he skillfully navigates the situation to turn the tide. The intense power struggle between two strong individuals is full of tension, and both the plot and the writing are excellent!

34. 184 奸 The Treacherous Minister Wants to Kill Me Every Day 奸臣每天都想弄死我 Qian Ran Jun Xiao千苒君笑Ancient Romance2.6M WordsCompleted Su Huai is a powerful court official, and everyone fears him. He only likes playing power games and scheming against others. He has no interest in women. Then one day, a young woman shows up at his door, claiming to be his fiancée. Su Huai: Want to date me? Lu Yao: What kind of date? Su Huai: The kind that could cost you your life. Lu Yao: ... Later, Lu Yao bitterly regrets her impulsive decision to show up and claim him as her fiancé. When she tries to call it quits, everyone urges her to recon 13.6kReads9.1Score1.4kShelves
35. 185 重 Reborn as a Substitute Bride, the Prince Dotes on Me Without Restraint 重生替嫁，王爷他娇宠无度 A Lampwick Wrapped in Fog雾裹灯芯Ancient Romance148k WordsCompleted She was sent as a substitute bride to a man rumored to bring death to his wives and leave no heirs. The entire capital wagered she wouldn’t survive her wedding night. But with memories of her past life, Su Wanning helped Gu Yanci avoid traps, root out spies, and defeat political rivals, transforming from a discarded daughter forced into marriage into the sole mistress of the Prince Regent’s household. He held power over the court, never took another concubine, and devoted himself to her alone. O —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This one should fit the bill perfectly. It's an ancient romance novel with excellent writing. The female lead is knowledgeable in pharmacology and martial arts, and she manipulates all the villains. The title is also very appealing, the male lead is handsome, and there are plenty of satisfying moments.

36. 186 爆 So Satisfying! The Reborn Noblewoman Wipes Out Her Entire Family 爆爽！贵女重生后团灭户口本 Ning Luo yy宁落yyAncient Romance402k WordsCompleted [Reborn + powerful heroine + satisfying revenge + devoted to each other + ruthless and decisive] In her previous life, Xiao Wenjun helped Yuwen Yao ascend the throne. Less than half a year later, he stripped her of her position as empress, had her cut open and her child removed, then tortured her to death. The once-glorious Xiao family was wiped out! Reborn, she lives only for revenge! The little lamb everyone once saw her as becomes decisive and merciless, repaying every grudge! Her cousin, who 1Reads—Score—Shelves
37. 187 天 The Celestial Master Reincarnates: The Ninth Princess Goes on a Killing Spree 天师转世：九公主她杀疯了 Yan Shangguan晏上观Ancient Romance167k WordsOngoing Originally titled Drunk Under Heaven [Female-Centric Heroine + Political Intrigue + No Romance + Revenge] She was hunted down and killed by twelve sects, then saddled with a fabricated crime: "Stealing the secrets of heaven and changing the fates of others." But for her boundless merit, she was allowed to be reborn with all her memories intact, becoming the most beloved Ninth Princess of the Great Sheng Dynasty. The emperor had been paving her way since her hundred-day celebration: if she wanted 1Reads—Score—Shelves
38. 188 九 The Ninth Prince's Consort Is Bold and Dashing 九王妃她又飒又狂 Xu Chaobai许超白Ancient Romance395k WordsCompleted In the 21st century, a shadow assassin was betrayed by her partner and stabbed in the chest. She transmigrated into Gu An, the foolish legitimate daughter of a marquis’s household. Her vicious cousin and ruthless aunt plotted against her, forcing her to take her cousin’s place and marry the Ninth Prince, who could die at any moment. A fool and an invalid were a perfect match. The people of Junjing munched on seeds and watched the show. When the legitimate daughter of the Gu family was born, the 2.8kReads9.1Score344Shelves

    Reader note

    [Bookshelf Added] Gu An, a 21st-century assassin, transmigrates into the body of a foolish girl in a marquis's mansion. Plotted by her cousin, she's forced to marry the "dying" Ninth Prince, Jun Linchuan. The entire capital watches the drama unfold: "A fool and a sickly girl, a match made in heaven!" Until— She's the one who saves the emperor at the hunting grounds! She's the one who leads the iron cavalry to protect the borders! She's the one who guards the lonely city with her spear! That sickly prince, fanning himself with a folding fan, is now leaning on her shoulder, "weakly" whispering: "My wife, someone wants my life." Gu An gently strokes her husband's cheek, her smile dangerous: "Husband, if you're not afraid, then... How about we spare his life?"

39. 189 摆 After My Slacker Plans Failed, the Regent Set His Sights on Me 摆烂失败后，被摄政王盯上了 SQrationAncient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [The female lead isn't all-powerful, and this is not a story about a strong female lead!!!] [The leads are only master and disciple. There will be no romance between them. This isn't a mindless power fantasy, and there are plot twists. Please don't complain if it's not your thing~] [The female lead is capable, but her heart is set on a life among mountains and rivers, so at first she only wants to keep a low profile and lie flat. Please stop asking!!!] Mu Yunsheng is born as the twin younger sis 2.9kReads9.0Score454Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead hides her true strength in the early stages, but becomes powerful later on.

40. 190 离 The Phoenix's Departure 离凰 Lan Jia Sanshao蓝家三少Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted She stayed by his side without a name or status, becoming the shameless woman everyone talked about. In return, a fire burned all the love and hatred they had once shared to ashes. When they first met, he was a prince high above the world, hiding his true intentions to survive the struggle for the throne. That night's fire would strip away his weakness, flesh and bone alike. Buddhists say that life turns full circle every seven years. When they met again seven years later, his eyes were red. Th 5.4kReads9.0Score682Shelves

    Reader note

    These books are all excellent. Book lovers should definitely check them out.

41. 191 快 Quick Transmigration: After Transmigrating into a Wicked Female Side Character, She Died Trying to Get Herself Killed 快穿之穿到恶毒女配作死后 ApathyModern Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Quick transmigration + no fixed CP + devoted to winning over villains + strong and beautiful + feel-good story] When Jiang Ruo has been imprisoned in the void for five hundred years, she picks up a nearly decommissioned System from a junkyard. The little System stammers that it is designed to help people win over villains. Jiang Ruo thinks the missions will be easy. Who could have guessed that the little System would keep dropping her into the story right after the supporting female character h 12.8kReads9.2Score1.3kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend the wildly popular transmigration novel, *Quick Transmigration: When the Villainous Supporting Character Gets a Guide to Conquering the Villain*! 🤩 The female lead, Jiang Ruo, is both beautiful and powerful. Bound to a romance system, she's essentially "on vacation with the villainous boss." In every world, her acting is phenomenal, effortlessly charming the villains. From a sickly secretary to a scheming farm girl to a venomous protector… the characters are captivating, and the romance is sweet without being cloying. The villains' self-conquest combined with mutual attraction delivers a thrilling and sweet experience! 🚀 No fixed couple, a pure feast for female lead lovers—you'll regret not reading it!

42. 192 平 A Second Wife Arrives Pregnant? Get Out! I Won't Touch That Filth 平妻孕肚入府？滚！老娘嫌脏 Meow Manman喵曼曼Ancient Romance250k WordsCompleted She cared for her gravely ill mother-in-law for five years, saving her from the brink of death and fulfilling her husband’s filial duties in his place. All she got in return was his accusation that she was a jealous shrew, and his insistence on taking a second wife… Fang He’an even said bluntly, “Qingying is kind by nature and knows nothing of the dirty tricks played in the inner household. She should know her place.” Her mother-in-law told her not to forget that this marriage was bought with he 242Reads7.7Score108Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is seriously amazing! The female lead is so incredibly cool, I highly recommend it!!!

43. 193 皇 The Empress Is a Max-Level Palace Intriguer, Crushing Everyone 皇后满级宫斗，嘎嘎乱杀 Hot Hot烫烫Ancient Romance602k WordsCompleted [Palace intrigue + infidelity + fictional setting + a resourceful, money-loving, beauty-loving, life-loving empress ✖️ emperor] In her previous life, Hua Shu was a lowly palace maid. She schemed her way to the top of the political ladder, only to be condemned by everyone and branded a wicked woman who brought ruin to the nation. When she opens her eyes again, she finds herself in the unfamiliar state of Chu, as an unloved empress who’s also being made a scapegoat. As if she’d put up with that! S 14.4kReads9.4Score2kShelves

    Reader note

    In her previous life, the female protagonist rose from a palace maid to the position of Empress Dowager through her own efforts. In this life, she transmigrates to a fictional era and starts as an empress who is not favored by the emperor. The female protagonist is clear-headed, not love-struck, and knows what she wants.

44. 194 乱 After Fleeing the Chaotic Era, I Became the Founding Empress 乱世逃亡后，我成了开国女帝 Nan Wanxu南婉徐Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted [Publication rights signed] [Strong heroine + political intrigue + turbulent times + power struggles + ensemble cast] She’s fleeing from the start, a female warlord in a chaotic age. Lin Zhihuang, originally named Lin Zhihuan, transmigrates as a county magistrate’s daughter, only to find tens of thousands of refugees attacking the city from the start! While others transmigrate into palace or household intrigue, she transmigrates straight into a chaotic age and a desperate flight from famine. The 98.2kReads9.4Score13.6kShelves

    Reader note

    A powerful woman vies for power in a chaotic world. The world is in turmoil; aristocratic families hold sway, morality has collapsed, and the people suffer. Lin Zhihuang, amidst this chaos, resolves to act decisively, planning every step carefully before acting. First, she seizes her father's power, then she plots to take control of the entire realm.

45. 195 凤 A Phoenix's Scheme for the World: The Prince Rebels for Me 凤谋天下：王爷为我造反了 Three Liang of Little Fat Moo三两小胖哞Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted “I, Yun Qingwan, swear that one day, those who betrayed me, bullied me, humiliated me, trampled on me, and tormented me will pay in blood!” In her previous life, her medical skills could bring the dead back to life and restore flesh to bones. She healed the sick, saved the world, and brought peace to the realm. Yet in the end, those she had helped chose to bully, betray, torment, and kill her! She opens her eyes and returns to the age of seventeen. The divine physician of her past life becomes a 120Reads8.2Score—Shelves
46. 196 梅 Plum Blossoms Fade, Yet Their Secret Fragrance Returns 梅烬又有暗香来 Chi Wu持吾Ancient Romance312k WordsCompleted [Old-school flavor + slow-burn, richly layered romance] I said, “This is for the best. This way, you’ll remember how good I was to you forever...” He said, “This is not for the best. Just when you loved me most, I chose to let you go...” The bright moon over Shengjing shines upon my borderland armor... In the storybooks, she is the woman general who has renounced love and shed blood on the frontier; In the powerful chancellor’s eyes, she is a red plum that does not vie with peach or plum blossom 169Reads8.7Score—Shelves
47. 197 凰 A Phoenix's Grand Scheme: The Princess Is Far Too Bold 凰谋天下：王妃太嚣张 Clouds Flying Through the Sky云天飞雾Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted As she lay dying, Yun Qingrao finally realized how absurd her life had been. As a grand princess, she'd gone to great lengths to help her younger brother ascend the throne, only to discover he wasn't her real brother. With a little manipulation, he sent her straight to hell, and the people around her had been plotting against her from the beginning. Her mansion was slaughtered, and her own younger sister was chopped to pieces before her eyes. At last, she understood: when the wily hare is dead, 19Reads8.4Score—Shelves
48. 198 惨 Reborn After a Horrific Death, I Drove Every Villain Crazy 惨死重生后，我把反派都逼疯啦 Yan Fei颜翡Ancient Romance1.9M WordsCompleted Reborn + household and palace intrigue + strong heroine and hero + revenge and taking down scumbags + satisfying read In her previous life, Shen Shuyi schemed and plotted at every turn to secure the crown prince's position for Xiao Tingshan. But he repaid her by turning his back on her, despising her for being calculating and deep-minded, and not gentle and demure enough. He not only took her life, but also caused countless friends and family members to die unjustly. Fine. Given another life, 15.4kReads8.9Score2kShelves

    Reader note

    A palace intrigue novel featuring strong male and female leads, where the female protagonist handles matters calmly and decisively.

49. 199 侯 My Lord, Your Wife Is Squandering Money Again 侯爷，夫人又败家了 A Nuan阿暖Ancient Romance2.4M WordsCompleted The notoriously stingy Marquis Lu of the capital has finally married. His bride is the young lady of Grand Academician Luo's household at the Hanlin Academy. On their wedding day, the banquet is nothing but plain congee with a piece of meat the size of a fingernail. It's said the couple's wedding robes were passed down through Lu Yuan's family, and Lu Yuan's robe has already been worn by nine generations. When the people of the capital offer their condolences, Grand Academician Luo is so moved h 144Reads6.3Score—Shelves
50. 200 花 The Courtesan's Blade, the Prince's Waist 花魁的刀，王爷的腰 Totally Bewitched可迷可迷了Ancient Romance758k WordsCompleted [A short drama and comic adaptation with the same title are now available] [Secret Identities / Devoted to Each Other / Happy Ending / Scheming Prince x Cold, Elegant Pavilion Master] Sworn enemies become spouses, uncovering each other's secret identities and flirting their way into a sweet romance! The Prince of Lingyuan x the Azure Bone Sect: a carefully orchestrated descent into madness. She is the mysterious master of the Pig Bone Pavilion, as well as the most famous courtesan in the capita 9.4kReads9.0Score1.2kShelves

    Reader note

    A courtesan assassin seeking revenge becomes a contractual wife with a cold-faced prince. Through countless life-and-death battles, their feelings for each other gradually develop, and in the end, he is willing to give up his kingdom for her.

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